Coquina-style exterior cladding, which references the construction of the earliest homes in St. Augustine, lends visual interest and tells a story of the First Coast and its architectural history.

Planted between the picket fence and the front porch to draw attention, needle palm will grow to a height of 4-1/2 feet and provide needed massing in the landscape.

Maintenance-free Asiatic jasmine replaces sod in the front yard. "We're taking that line between the structure and the natural environment and softening it so it feels like there is not a firm and precise break line," says landscape architect Jeremy Marquis.

A planter strip of dwarf Mondo grass stabilizes the surrounding soil and minimizes the amount of pavers used in the driveway area.

The exterior is clad in fiber cement siding, designed to mimic the look of classic cedar or cypress shakes.

An aluminum sculpture, Jumping for Joy, by Roswell, Ga., artist Stephen Kishel, draws attention in the front yard and stands in contrast to the home’s classic shingle-style design.

"One of this area's iconic plantings is saw palmetto, which you see everywhere," says landscape architect Jeremy Marquis. "We used it to soften that line between the natural landscape and our built landscape around the home."

Two cabbage palms flank the home's light tower, drawing the eye to unique architectural detailing. A native species and the state tree of Florida, the palm is resistant to drought, high winds and hurricane-like conditions.

Wherever possible, existing live oak was protected. The home was nestled into the property, taking advantage of shade provided by native species.

The front door is monitored by one of the home's ten security cameras. The homeowner can access data via a smartphone or tablet or computer.

Exposed soffits, extended overhangs and double-hung windows are among the features that hallmark HGTV Smart Home classic shingle style.

HGTV Smart Home 2013 makes beach living easy, with design elements that accommodate an active lifestyle and high-tech features the save time and money and ensure peace of mind.